A Blog About Stock Photography. John specializes in shooting stock photos including a mix of funny animal pictures with anthropomorphized pets (including dogs, cats, cows, elephants, monkeys and more), and concept stock photos for business and consumer communications. John's site includes interviews with photographers and leaders in the stock photo community as well as numerous articles on photography, digital imaging, and the stock photo business.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

The road to success requires going the extra mile.

Six Tips For Building A Photography Career

1.Have an income. Here is why. You are better off
turning down jobs that are not right for you, and in which you are not being
provided the budget and resources you need to do an exemplary job. You will be
known for the quality of the work you do…only do great work! With a secondary (or primary) source of
income, whether it is waiting on tables, assisting, or substitute teaching (I did that...) you can afford to be choosy as you build your photography career.

2.Shoot what the market wants with your own unique
style and you will make money. Shoot what the market doesn’t want or need, and
no matter how great your work you won’t earn money.

3.Keep your expenses down. Don’t throw your money
around. Make careful decisions about when to rent and when to buy. Build a
network with other photographers and share equipment, studios, models and
resources. In marketing, cultivate personal contacts rather than throwing money
into marketing campaigns. Personal contact actually is more effective too. There
are a thousand photographers who can do the job…the art director will hire the
one that can do the job AND that he/she has good chemistry with.

4.Keep your production values high. Don’t skimp on
the essential props, models and styling that are needed to insure great work.
All of your work needs to be great work whether you are shooting stock or
assignments.

5.Ideas are Paramount. What are you bringing to the table? There are plenty of
photographers who can do the job…set yourself apart with your ideas and
creativity.

6.This may be the most important tip of all: Treat your client like you want to be treated.
Whether your client is a stock agency, corporation, designer or ad agency, go
the extra mile. Don’t over-promise…over deliver!